Love Addiction – Koyama Keiichiro
When it comes to Asian HipTronik, Korea definitely has a monopoly, which is all the more reason we love to find gems from amongst its neighbors. Koyama Keiichiro's "Love Addiction" is a constantly transitioning piece which begins with pure electro, adds a bit of hip hop and culminates in a pop style that's completely Japanese. We must say, this is quite the transition for a guy who recently played Troy Bolton in the Japanese stage version of "High School Musical." The song is almost reminiscent of Ayumi Hamasaki's earlier electro hits--and that's a good thing. A member of JPop megagroup NEWS, Keiichiro already has a massive fan base screaming in approval of the new style he's bringing to the table.
Rule (80Kidz’s “No More Rule” Mix) – Ayumi Hamasaki
What happens when you mix one of Japan's greatest pop stars with its most exciting electronica group? Answer: "Rule (80Kidz's 'No More Rule' Mix)," the original track which appeared on Ayumi Hamasaki's 45th single, "Rule / Sparkle," and was used internationally in the live action "Dragonball Evolution" released earlier this year.
Surprisingly, the 80Kidz were asked to remix the track for the megastar, despite their underground status. The results are simply mouthwatering, if not completely addictive. Though they don't often release electronica/hip-hop mashups, the 80Kidz are definitely worth checking out (you'll love "Life Begins at Eighty" and "Disdrive"). Trust us, this up-and-coming group out of Tokyo is not one you want to miss.
Beautiful Fighters – Ayumi Hamasaki (MSTRKRFT Remix)
Ayumi Hamasaki, once dubbed “the Madonna of Japan,” is arguably one of Asia’s most visible pop artists. Selling over fifty million records since her debut over ten years ago, she shows no signs of slowing down.
An entrepreneur at heart, Hamasaki has released numerous remixes of her work, attracting the talent of everyone from Above and Beyond and Ferry Corsten to Armand Van Helden and DJ Kentaro. Off her most recent remix compilation, Ayu-Mi-X 6 Gold –RMX WORKS-, MSTRKRFT steps in to tweak the hit single “Beautiful Fighters.” Taking it from its original bright pop vibe into the realm of electronica, MSTRKRFT creates a dance floor tune with a universal punch.
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